According to congressional aides and US lawmakers, a US Customs and Border Protection drone mistakenly shot down a US military laser-based counter-drone system near Fort Hancock, Texas. This incident prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to expand flight restrictions along the US-Mexico border.
As drone threats escalate across Eastern Europe, the US Army is accelerating counter-unmanned systems development through innovative acquisition pathways. Project Flytrap 4.
Raytheon has successfully tested a reusable version of its Coyote counter-drone system for the US Army, aiming at a problem commanders increasingly worry about: how to fight a drone swarm without relying on large numbers expensive interceptors. The system can defeat drone swarms without relying on expensive interceptors and was tested during Operation Clear Horizon trials in October 2025.
Picogrid has won a $9.3 million SBIR contract to connect disparate counter-drone defenses at selected Air Force bases using its 'translator' software written by AI. The translator, called Legion, connects hitherto incompatible military systems, such as radars and jammers, according to Breaking Defense reports.
The Pentagon has expanded its counter-drone authorities beyond the 'fence line' of Department of Defense installations, giving service chiefs and base commanders more flexibility to address growing drone threats. The Army-led JIATF 401 announced additional guidance allowing for expanded range in taking down threats, deeming unauthorized surveillance a threat, and designating special protections for facilities.
The NDAA gives the Pentagon's counter-drone task force extraordinary authority over acquisition programs across the armed forces. The task force can set technical standards, run field tests, and block acquisitions if a system doesn't meet its requirements.
Ireland is considering requesting air defense assistance from European partners during its 2026 EU presidency, citing growing drone threats. A French Navy Aquitaine-class frigate equipped with Aster surface-to-air missiles may be deployed to Dublin Bay as part of this effort.
Embraer has introduced a new operational concept for its A-29 Super Tucano, designed to counter unmanned aerial systems (UAS). According to AeroTime, the Brazilian manufacturer states that the concept relies largely on sensors and weapons already integrated into the A-29, combined with updated tactics, techniques, and procedures.
The US Army has signed an agreement with the UK establishing ground rules for sharing intelligence on drone and counter-drone operations. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll plans to expand this partnership to a couple of other countries, aiming to build and buy similar tools as its partners.
The US Department of Homeland Security has awarded a multimillion-dollar contract to Fortem Technologies to protect the 2026 FIFA World Cup from hostile drones. Under the agreement, Fortem will deploy its counter-drone systems at 11 venues during the tournament.
The FAA issued a temporary airspace restriction near El Paso, citing 'special security concerns.' However, within hours, the agency lifted the restriction, stating there was no threat to commercial aviation. Several reports describe counter-drone activity and the use of a directed-energy system, but details are scarce.